Things to Do in Perth
Things to see and do in Perth, Perth highlights, Perth activities and attractions, and points of interest in Perth - the ALL NEW Jasons Perth Things to Do Guide is your complete guide to sightseeing in Perth.
Arts and entertainment
The Perth Cultural Centre, featuring the State Library, Museum and Art Gallery is one of the most popular attractions for visitors. The Western Australian Museum has an extensive range of natural science exhibitions as well as an excellent Aboriginal Gallery. The museum includes Old Perth Gaol which is an 1856 Georgian stone building. The Art Gallery houses a good collection of Australian and international paintings and Aboriginal art. In
Fremantle,
The Western Australian Maritime Museum has an internationally important collection of shipwreck relics which have fallen prey to the state's coastline since the early 17th century. Perth is also home to Australia's only remaining Edwardian theatre in His Majesty's Theatre. The 'Maj', as it's known, opened in 1904 and today hosts live entertainment including drama, opera, ballet and musicals. Burswood Resort Hotel and Casino is five minutes from the city centre and provides entertainment 24 hours a day.
Shopping and dining out
Despite the relatively small population, the affluence of many of Perth's residents translates into great shopping opportunities. The best place for visitors to shop is in the city centre in the blocks bounded by St Georges Terrace and William, Wellington and Barrack Streets. The unique London Court, an Elizabethan-style arcade between Hay Street Mall and St Georges Terrace, is an interesting shopping arcade. With Perth’s temperate climate and beautiful views, eating out is always a popular pastime. Both al fresco and fine dining are popular in Perth, and there are plenty of great eateries within the city area.
Out and about
A city of parks, the most impressive is the 400 hectares of botanic garden, bicycle and walking trails, wildflowers and native bushland in the centre of the city which form
Kings Park and Botanic Gardens. The park also encompasses Mt Eliza, a popular place to enjoy a panoramic view of Perth and its surrounds. As well as parks, Perth has over 80km of sandy beaches, most of which provide good swimming opportunities.
Rottnest Island, 20km off the coast of Perth, is a popular holiday and day trip destination. The island is known for its historic Rottnest Hotel, now commonly known as the Quokka Arms, which was built in 1864. The old Rottnest Lodge, previously a colonial barracks and Aboriginal prison, has now been converted to quality visitor accommodation. There are swimming lagoons, secluded bays and great surfing beaches, or enjoy some of the walking and cycling trails (cars are not permitted on the island, although there are buses).